TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Embrace the serene beauty of winter in Aspen Snowmass through the ancient art of snowshoeing. Aspen Snowmass offers a variety of fantastic snowshoeing trails for enthusiasts of all levels. Here are some of the best places to snowshoe in Aspen Snowmass:
Ashcroft Ghost Town and Castle Creek Valley: This historical area near Aspen offers a serene snowshoeing experience through the ghost town of Ashcroft and along the scenic Castle Creek Valley. The wide, groomed trails make it suitable for all skill levels.
Maroon Bells Snowshoe Trail: The Maroon Bells, one of Colorado's most iconic natural landmarks, offers a picturesque snowshoeing experience in the winter. The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail takes you to the base of the Bells, offering breathtaking views.
Snowmass Nordic Center: Snowmass Village boasts an extensive network of well-maintained trails suitable for snowshoeing. You can explore the serene forests and open meadows surrounding Snowmass Village.
Hunter Creek Trail: Located just outside of Aspen, the Hunter Creek Trail is a popular option for snowshoers. It features a picturesque trail that takes you through a beautiful forested area along Hunter Creek.
Buttermilk Mountain Trails: While Buttermilk is famous for its downhill skiing, it also offers a network of snowshoeing trails in the winter. You can explore the scenic slopes at a slower pace.
Rio Grande Trail: This multi-use trail that runs from Aspen to Glenwood Springs offers a more extended snowshoeing adventure. The lower sections near Aspen are easier, while the upper sections become progressively more challenging.
Smuggler Mountain Road: Smuggler Mountain, located near Aspen, features a popular snowshoeing route along Smuggler Mountain Road. The trail provides stunning views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains.
Government Trail: Starting at Snowmass Village, the Government Trail offers a variety of terrain for snowshoers, including forested sections and open meadows. The trail eventually connects to Buttermilk and Aspen.
Remember to check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and avalanche risk before heading out on any snowshoeing adventure in Aspen Snowmass. Additionally, consider guided snowshoe tours if you're new to the area or the sport, as they can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety while exploring these beautiful winter landscapes. We recommend the following resources to plan your snowshoeing adventure.